The first topic, “Small dimensions – big impact”, focussed on the brand new Heckert H100 4-axis machining centre, which rounds off the top end of the current Heckert compact series. It was demonstrated with a pilot application developed for the Czech vehicle manufacturer Tatra Trucks, in which entire V8 and V12 engines are machined in five operations. Starrag application technologist Rico Ullrich explains: “Using a compact machine for such large parts saves a lot of money – in terms of machine investment, transport, foundations and installation space, right through to the machining process itself. Moreover, we also supplied the process design and developed the four required devices – all in close collaboration with the customer, of course.” The second topic, the symbiosis of metal 3D printing and 5-axis finish machining, holds great potential for the future. This was presented in the form of a Gefertec arc80X and a Heckert X50 with turning function. “A highlight of our Technology Days,” emphasises Kai Bohle, Director of Sales T&I at the Chemnitz site. “In complex components, the generative process often saves more than 70 % of raw material. This reduces the amount of finishing work required, meaning more parts of better quality can be machined in the same time than with conventional methods. It’s still a niche at the moment, but that will change.”

Topic number four: self-made precision. “Our goal is to manufacture all precision- critical parts ourselves,” explains Sales Manager Kai Bohle. “That’s why we are massively expanding production here at this site.” Central to this are two (soon to be three) Heckert HEC 800 X5 with turning function, which feature the Heckert High-Precision Package in addition to the optional extended travel paths. They manufacture pallets and faceplates for B-axes and rotary-drive units, bearing blocks, gearbox housings and much more – fully automated in small and medium series. One important automation element is a Fastems linear storage system with 64 pallet spaces and two set-up stations.

However, the Technology Days focussed less on the Heckert HEC 800 machines manufactured in Chemnitz and more on the actual machining processes. Using the example of pallet machining, Starrag technologist Jan Wilske explained why precision is so important and what requirements must be met on the machine side. Using measurement logs, he impressively demonstrated that tolerances in the single-digit μm range are maintained across all batch sizes – in terms of the evenness, squareness, straightness of the contact surfaces and positions. A huge concrete foundation could be seen right next to the Heckert HEC 800 machining centres.

With an area of 22 × 14 metres, it provides the framework for the basic structure of a 12-metre Droop+Rein FOGS HD40 130 R50C high gantry machining centre. With this huge high-speed machining centre from the Starrag site in Bielefeld, the Chemnitz-based company will in future machine all columns, machine beds and other precision-critical large parts for Heckert machines and other brands of the StarragTornos Group to an accuracy of just a few μm.